TERI and Coca-Cola Join Hands to set up Dept of Regional Water Studies

TERI University has joined hands with The Coca-Cola Foundation to launch the ‘Coca-Cola Department of Regional Water Studies'. Dr. Leena Srivastava, Vice-Chancellor of TERI University and Asim Parekh, Vice President, Technical and Supply Chain, Coca-Cola India and South West Asia launched the program at the TERI University Campus, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

The National Water Policy (2012) issued by the Ministry of Water Resources, Government of India lists some key areas of resource and capability scarcity in the management of water resources. The Policy states the ‘The lack of adequate trained personnel for scientific planning, utilizing modern techniques and analytical capabilities incorporating information technology constrains good water management.' It also states that ‘A holistic and inter-disciplinary approach at water related problems is missing' and that ‘The public agencies in charge of taking water related decisions tend to take these on their own without consultation with stakeholders, often resulting in poor and unreliable service characterized by inequities of various kinds.'

Coca-Cola and the TERI University have come together to set up an academic department to respond to these needs of creating new knowledge and capacity in water related issues. To be named the Coca-Cola Department of Regional Water Studies, it will examine water issues in an interdisciplinary framework, bringing in cultural, educational and scientific factors as well as religious, ethical, social, political, legal, institutional and economic dimensions towards a better, holistic approach to water management.

The Programme aims to develop a globally competitive cadre of young water management professionals, scientifically manage water resources in the country with the help of research, development and new technologies, as well as build capability for various stakeholders who can influence policy and implement research effectively.

"India needs to urgently build the capacity to conserve, manage and efficiently utilize all its available water resources, including in the remotest parts of the country and across boundaries. Policies, regulatory frameworks, financial mechanisms, access and equity issues all have to be aligned to urgently reduce our water vulnerabilities while enhancing our food and energy security. The Coca Cola Department will strive to respond fully to these needs". said Dr. Leena Srivastava, Vice-Chancellor of TERI University

"For The Coca-Cola Company, water is central not just to our business, but to the societies in which we operate. As part of our global framework of sustainability, Coca-Cola places a high importance on WATER, WOMEN and WELLBEING." said Asim Parekh, Vice President, Technical and Supply Chain, Coca-Cola India and South West Asia.

"We believe that through this partnership with TERI University, we can contribute to the creation of human resource capital in the area of water management as well as help in research and development on water management. This partnership brings together the Golden Triangle of Government, Business and Civil society with Academia and we hope that this department will lead in the field of water governance. " he concluded.

The Department will act as a center for integrative, assimilative and inclusive knowledge creation using an interdisciplinary approach to address complex water sustainability issues. Students can apply to either an MTech or an MSc two-year, full time degree program in Water Science and Governance. In addition to the two year full time course, candidates will also have an option of registering for a one year PG Diploma programme or a six month certificate programme in either MTech or MSc. Applications for these programmes are now open and will be received at Teri University, 10 Institutional Area, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi until 16th June 2014.

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